All fish / Loricariidae

Royal Farlowella

Sturisomatichthys aureus

Also known as giant whiptail catfish, sturisoma aureum, golden whiptail, royal whiptail, sturisoma caquetae, sturisomatichthys caquetae, whiptail catfish, sturisoma panamense, スタリソーマ・アウレウム, 皇冠直升机, 直升机鼠

A long, slender armoured catfish with a tall sail-like dorsal fin and long filaments trailing from both tips of the tail. It is kept for its striking shape, calm nature and its habit of grazing algae on wood and glass.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

20 cm

Temperature

24 to 28 °C

pH

6.5 to 7.5

Smallest tank

200 litres

Keep as

Single, pair or small group

Diet

Herbivore: algae wafers, blanched vegetables, biofilm, plus some frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

8 to 10 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Colombia (Magdalena, Cauca and San Jorge river basins)

Breeding

Males guard eggs laid on a smooth vertical surface such as the glass or a pipe, and grow bristles on the cheeks when ready. It breeds fairly readily in mature, well-oxygenated tanks with good flow, though the fry need plenty of fine plant food.

Good to know

The name Sturisoma caquetae is not considered valid and fish sold under it are usually Sturisomatichthys aureus or a close relative, so check identity. It needs clean, oxygen-rich water with some current and does poorly with boisterous or nippy tankmates.